It is apparent that you are frustrated and understandably upset.
Your endocrinologist can best interpret the test results and tell you if have Cushing's disease or Cushing's syndrome.
Cushing's syndrome can be difficult to diagnose. The classic physical signs of Cushing's syndrome include rounding of the face or moon face, a pad of fatty tissue between the shoulders and neck or buffalo bump, and thin skin with bruises and stretch marks.
Cushing's disease is a specific form of Cushing's syndrome. It occurs when a noncancerous tumor on the pituitary gland produces excessive amounts of ACTH or adrrenocorticotropic hormone.
Since Cushing's disease is a form of Cushing's syndrome, many of the symptoms of Cushing's disease are the same as those for Cushing's syndrome.
Patients with Cushing's disease will have streaking or stretch marks that appear on the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, arms and breasts. They will quickly gain weight despite controlling diet and being active, just as you are experiencing. Women experience excessive hair growth on their faces and bodies.
If you are not satisfied with the level of care that you are currently getting with your present endocrinologist, I suggest that you get a second opinion. Ask your general practitioner for a referral. Be honest about your experience.
If two medical professionals agree on the diagnosis and prognosis, then you will at least have some answers.
Comment Reply
Hello Anonymous,
It is apparent that you are frustrated and understandably upset.
Your endocrinologist can best interpret the test results and tell you if have Cushing's disease or Cushing's syndrome.
Cushing's syndrome can be difficult to diagnose. The classic physical signs of Cushing's syndrome include rounding of the face or moon face, a pad of fatty tissue between the shoulders and neck or buffalo bump, and thin skin with bruises and stretch marks.
Cushing's disease is a specific form of Cushing's syndrome. It occurs when a noncancerous tumor on the pituitary gland produces excessive amounts of ACTH or adrrenocorticotropic hormone.
Since Cushing's disease is a form of Cushing's syndrome, many of the symptoms of Cushing's disease are the same as those for Cushing's syndrome.
Patients with Cushing's disease will have streaking or stretch marks that appear on the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, arms and breasts. They will quickly gain weight despite controlling diet and being active, just as you are experiencing. Women experience excessive hair growth on their faces and bodies.
If you are not satisfied with the level of care that you are currently getting with your present endocrinologist, I suggest that you get a second opinion. Ask your general practitioner for a referral. Be honest about your experience.
If two medical professionals agree on the diagnosis and prognosis, then you will at least have some answers.
All the best,
Maryann
June 13, 2013 - 5:08pmThis Comment
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